It is absolutely critical to have a gynecologic oncologist perform surgery if ovarian cancer is suspected. His/her involvement can have a direct and positive impact on a patient’s survival. Surgery is often the initial step in ovarian cancer and also provides the gynecologic oncologist with the definitive diagnosis. The cancer is removed during surgery as well as specific organs, such as the ovaries. Frequently, the gynecologic oncologist also removes the omentum [tissue covering the stomach and large intestine] and possibly lymph nodes. In some cases, the fallopian tubes, uterus and the cervix will also be removed. It is critical to stage and grade the cancer appropriately – i.e. determining the spread of the cancer and its differentiation. This procedure is typically known as “debulking” and may also involve tissue samples from various organs, the diaphragm as well as fluid [known as ascites]. Tumor debulking reduces the amount of cancer substantially and allows the chemotherapy to treat the cancer which remains, such as microscopic cancer. When the ovaries are removed, a woman experiences immediate menopause. Soon after the surgery, the woman is likely to experience symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. She should talk with her doctor about ways to cope with these side effects.